Ground Floor Government

PhoneLive.io
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Government

Ground Floor Government is the podcast for the people who make local government work—behind the scenes. Hosted by David Plappert, founder of PhoneLive.io, this show gives city and county clerks, IT leads, communication pros, and public servants their time at the mic. ㅤ Each week, we dig into what really keeps cities and counties running—last-minute meeting prep, tech shifts, team leadership, and the quiet but essential work of transparency and public service. If you’ve ever hit publish on a public notice, stayed late to prep a meeting, or solved a problem no one even saw coming, this show is for you.

  1. 2d ago

    From Journalism to Government Communications (with Trevor Smith) | Ep. 115

    Summary In this episode of the Ground Floor Government Podcast, host Hugh Plappert interviews Trevor Smith, the communication manager of Meridian, Idaho. They discuss Trevor's unique career path from journalism to local government communications, the challenges and responsibilities of a communication manager, and the importance of building relationships within the community. Trevor shares insights on navigating limited resources, adapting to accessibility rules, and the passion that drives public service professionals. The conversation highlights the benefits of working in local government and offers advice for those considering a career in this field. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Local government careers offer unique opportunities for growth.Transitioning from journalism to communications can be rewarding.Communication managers play a vital role in community engagement.Building relationships is key to effective communication.Limited resources require creative problem-solving in communication.Understanding diverse stakeholders is crucial for project success.Career growth in government communications is achievable with the right mindset.Accessibility rules impact communication strategies significantly.Passion for public service drives effective communication.Working in local government provides meaningful community impact. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  2. 4d ago

    The Essential Role of a Town Clerk (with Laroue Shatzkin) | Ep. 114

    Summary In this episode, we explore the journey of Laroue, a town clerk in Cortlandt, New York, who shares her experiences in local government. From her family's political legacy to the challenges faced during COVID-19, Laroue discusses the vital role of a town clerk, the importance of community engagement, and the ongoing digital transformation in local governance. She emphasizes the significance of communication skills and offers advice for those aspiring to enter local government. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Laroue is a third-generation politically active woman.She was elected as town clerk after serving as a district leader.The role of a town clerk includes processing vital statistics and meeting minutes.COVID-19 presented unique challenges for local government operations.Digital transformation is crucial for improving public access to records.Budgetary investments can significantly impact local government projects.Effective communication is essential in dealing with the public.Connecting with the community is key to being elected.Innovative ideas, like giving out ring pops, can create memorable connections.The role of a town clerk is multifaceted and requires adaptability. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  3. Sep 4

    The Role of County Clerks in Elections (with Brianna Lennon) | Ep. 113

    Summary In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Brianna Lennon, the county clerk of Boone County, Missouri. They discuss the various pathways into local government careers, the significant impact these roles can have on communities, and the challenges faced in election management, particularly regarding accessibility. Brianna shares insights on the satisfaction derived from public service and the stability offered by local government jobs compared to the corporate world. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Local government offers diverse career opportunities.Elected officials can significantly impact their communities.Election management involves various responsibilities and challenges.Recruiting volunteers for elections can be difficult.Accessibility in voting is crucial for inclusivity.Working in local government provides job stability.Transitioning from corporate to local government can be beneficial.Public service roles can be fulfilling and impactful.Engagement in local government can lead to career growth.Understanding the election process is essential for county clerks. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  4. Sep 2

    The Hidden Work of Communications (with Summer Rascoll) | Ep. 112

    Summary In this conversation, Summer Rascoll, the Director of Communication in Nixa, Missouri, shares her journey into local government and the importance of effective communication in building community trust. She discusses the challenges of navigating unexpected situations, the need for transparency, and the impact of limited resources on communication efforts. Summer emphasizes the significance of collaboration across departments and the essential skills required for success in local government. She also highlights the stability and unique roles available in local government careers, encouraging listeners to consider opportunities in this field. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Local government communication is crucial for community efficiency.Summer Rascoll emphasizes the importance of being in the right place at the right time.Unexpected challenges are a common part of communication roles.Building community trust requires transparency and consistent communication.Limited resources in local government require creative solutions.Effective communication skills are essential for navigating public relations.Balancing creativity with regulations is a key challenge in government communication.Collaboration across departments is vital for successful communication strategies.Passion for public service drives effective communication efforts.Local government offers stability and diverse career opportunities. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  5. Aug 31

    Creating Your Own Job in Local Government (with Thomas Bunn) | Ep. 111

    Summary In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with Thomas Bunn, a video and social media manager for Inglewood, California. They explore the various pathways to employment in local government, the challenges and rewards of multimedia communication, and the passion that drives individuals to serve their communities. Thomas shares his personal journey and offers encouragement to aspiring media professionals considering a career in public service. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways There are many ways to find employment in local government.Creating your own job in city government is possible.Multimedia roles can be both fun and challenging.Effective communication can turn around difficult situations.Engaging social media posts can make a significant community impact.Passion for public service drives many professionals.Encouragement is key for those considering local government careers.Mid-career professionals can also find opportunities in government.Connecting with others in the field can lead to new opportunities.Local government offers a chance to impact your community positively. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  6. Aug 28

    Navigating the Recorder's Office (with Bryan Long) | Ep. 110

    Summary In this conversation, Bryan Long discusses his early influences in politics, the responsibilities of the recorder's office, challenges faced during his tenure, and the importance of community engagement in addressing issues like fraud. He reflects on his personal journey and aspirations in public service, emphasizing the need for effective communication and proactive measures in governance. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Bryan's interest in politics was sparked by family discussions.He has a background in real estate and insurance.The recorder's office handles various property documents.E-recording has significantly increased efficiency in document processing.Fraud prevention is a major concern for the recorder's office.Community engagement is crucial for addressing local issues.Legislative advocacy is part of Bryan's role in the Ohio Recorders Association.Listening to constituents is key to effective governance.Challenges in office can arise from employee misconduct.Personal growth and service to the community are important to Bryan. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  7. Aug 26

    Hidden Career Paths That Keep a City Running (with Jennifer Kleen) | Ep. 109

    Summary In this conversation, Hugh Plappert interviews Jennifer Kleen, the public information officer of Minot, North Dakota. They discuss the journey into local government, the role of a public information officer, challenges in community engagement, navigating regulations, building relationships with the community, and exploring career opportunities in local government. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of city branding and creating an emotional connection with the community. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Making sure folks have the right information is crucial.A background in journalism can lead to a career in local government.The role of a public information officer involves storytelling.Community engagement can sometimes be challenging.Navigating regulations is a key part of the job.Building relationships with the community is essential.Metrics in local government focus on relationships, not just numbers.There are diverse career opportunities in local government.Traffic engineering is a fascinating field within local government.City branding is about creating an emotional response. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

  8. Aug 24

    Empowering Communities Through Local Government (with Pavan Parikh) | Ep. 108

    Summary In this conversation, Pavan Parikh, Clerk of Courts in Hamilton County, Ohio, shares his journey into local government, emphasizing the importance of public service and the impact of local governance on community well-being. He discusses the challenges faced in the judicial system, innovative solutions for improving access to justice, and the significance of building a supportive ecosystem for those in need. Parikh also highlights the importance of funding and resource management in local government and encourages young individuals to consider careers in this field, where they can make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions Takeaways Local government careers focus on making a difference.The events of September 11 influenced many to pursue public service.Working at the local level allows for immediate impact on people's lives.The Help Center was created to assist those without legal representation.Expanding access to legal help has led to better outcomes for tenants.Building partnerships with nonprofits can enhance community support.Transparency in local government fosters trust and support from appropriators.There are diverse career opportunities in local government.Local government work provides stability and long-term impact.Helping individuals in vulnerable situations is a rewarding aspect of public service. Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

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About

Ground Floor Government is the podcast for the people who make local government work—behind the scenes. Hosted by David Plappert, founder of PhoneLive.io, this show gives city and county clerks, IT leads, communication pros, and public servants their time at the mic. ㅤ Each week, we dig into what really keeps cities and counties running—last-minute meeting prep, tech shifts, team leadership, and the quiet but essential work of transparency and public service. If you’ve ever hit publish on a public notice, stayed late to prep a meeting, or solved a problem no one even saw coming, this show is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    PhoneLive.io
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    116
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 PhoneLive.io
  • Show Website
    Ground Floor Government